Ffatri Fenter: The Story So Far

Menter a Busnes - Business Development Wales

Menter a Busnes Ffatri Fenter Business Development Wales

The Inspirations Story

Heather Drake:
Inspirations

Back in May 2005, Heather was referred to the Ffatri Fenter by Venture Wales. She was very keen to re-awaken her love for hair-styling. Ever since she left school, Heather has been a hair-stylist; it was only natural that she would want to start her own business.

“I was apprehensive at the beginning, and I wasn’t sure which way to turn or how to approach a new situation. I listened to advice from the Ffatri Fenter…”

According to Heather, she received the necessary as well as wise advice for her to make her dream come true. Cutting hair is only one aspect of her business. By now, she is a synthetic and human hair wig and hair-pieces specialist. This is a particularly sensitive business because of the fact that she is dealing with people who suffer from alopecia or are receiving chemotherapy treatment. She is also a hair designer, offering services such as straightening, colour, hair extensions and so on. As Heather has the relevant skills and qualifications, she saw an opportunity to offer manicure and pedicure packages, which enabled her to target a wider range of customers and so opened the door to the wedding market.

“Ffatri Fenter has given me lots of support and my coordinator was wonderful. I received a grant for advertising materials, help with writing my business plan, put me in touch with a website designer, and was just there for me, to help me. Need I say more?! It was well worth that phone call!”

Inspirations is doing well although she does admit that the wig front is slower developing compared to the hair-designing side of the business. Heather feels that everything has fallen into place. Being a mother of two, the fact that she can combine her duties as a mother, a house-wife and her roll as a boss, makes her feel content.

“Decision making can still be a bit harrowing but none the less, each step makes you a better person and I smile when I wake up in the mornings.”